Dancer tying her shoe painting by Edgar Degas

Library Of The National Institute Of History Of Art

Library of the National Institute of History of Art (INHA), Paris: Complete Visiting Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Located in the heart of Paris within the historic Richelieu site, the Library of the National Institute of History of Art (INHA) stands as one of the world’s foremost centers for art history research and a celebrated architectural landmark. With its vast collections, inspiring Salle Labrouste, and dynamic cultural programming, the INHA Library offers an enriching experience to art historians, students, researchers, and all lovers of art and culture. This comprehensive guide provides essential information on visiting hours, registration, tickets, accessibility, collections, and nearby attractions to help you make the most of your visit to this Parisian gem.

For up-to-date information and event announcements, consult the INHA Official Site and the BnF Richelieu Site.

Cover page of 1er Figure de Mode magazine from March-May 1912 with vintage fashion illustration

Portrait of Jean Joseph Balechou, French engraver

Château de Chenonceau viewed from the water with reflections of the arches and lush greenery along the banks

Château de Chenonceau from the front showing arches over the river and lush green garden

Château de Chenonceau in France, captured in a historic photograph by Étienne and Louis-Antonin Neurdein

Château de Chenonceau view with reflective water and historic architecture

Clerestory windows and architectural details of the Mosque of Omar in Jerusalem

Vincent van Gogh, Edmond Bénard, and John Peter Russell portrait photograph

Photograph of artists group at Academie Julian, Paris, including Vincent Van Gogh in 1888

Painter Émile Foubert in his studio working on an artwork

Portrait of painter Émile Foubert in his studio by Edmond Bénard

Entrance of a mosque in Jerusalem showcasing intricate Arab architectural designs

School entrance near Haram esh-Sharif in Jerusalem with distinct Arabic architectural features

Historical photograph of the INHA fund group in Paris, taken by Edmond Bénard in 1888 featuring adult Vincent Van Gogh and notable artists

Front cover of Cahier pour Aline by Paul Gauguin artwork from 1893

Painting Causeries sans paroles by Paul Gauguin depicting two women in vibrant yellow and red attire in a lush natural setting

Architectural elevation drawing of a large pavilion by Jacques Perret

Group portrait of 34 painters at Académie Julian in Paris circa 1888-1889

Henry Mosler and women painters by Edmond Bénard

Jean-Jacques Avril painting Pillement-Chasseur 4

Vintage painting of a fisherman in traditional attire sitting by the water with fishing gear

17th century painting of a fisherman by Jean-Jacques Avril

Antique Chinese style wall cartel with intricate gold and blue designs

Ornate Chinese-style cartel with intricate floral and scroll patterns in gold

Jean-Jacques Avril Pillement Cartel Chinois artwork featuring intricate Asian-inspired decorative motifs

Chinese style floral and bird design on a decorative cartouche by Jean-Jacques Avril Pillement

Chinese-style cartel plaque with intricate floral and ornamental design in soft pastel colors

Chinese Cartel artwork by Jean-Jacques Avril Pillement

Elegant Chinese parasols with intricate designs

Jean-Jacques Avril - Pillement - Pêcheur painting depicting a fisherman

Jean-Jacques Avril Pillement painting of a fisherman at sea

Classic painting of a fisherman on a small boat in a lake

Jean-Jacques Avril Pillement hunter artwork showing a person in historical clothing with a musket

Jean-Jacques Avril artwork depicting a classical scene with a hunter and animals

Vintage illustration of Chinese parasols by Jean-Jacques Avril Pillement

Chinese parasols with intricate red floral and geometric patterns

Introduction
Visitor Information
Historical Overview
Architectural Highlights
- Salle Labrouste
- Other Features
Collections and Resources
Tours, Events, and Photographic Opportunities
FAQs
Tips for Your Visit
Summary and Final Thoughts
References

Visitor Information

Opening Hours

General Public: Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Closed: Sundays, Mondays, and public holidays
Special Events: Hours may vary; check the official calendar.

Admission and Tickets

Entry: Free for all visitors
Registration: Required at the entrance for access to reading rooms and special collections
Special Collections: Access for researchers, students (Master 1 level and above), and professionals upon registration with documentation
Guided Tours and Events: Some may require advance reservation or tickets; see the INHA events page.

Accessibility

Full wheelchair accessibility, including ramps and elevators
Adapted facilities available for visitors with reduced mobility
Contact the library in advance for specific accommodations

Directions and Getting There

Address: 2 Rue Vivienne, 75002 Paris (Richelieu site, BnF complex)
Metro:

Bourse (Line 3)
Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre (Lines 1, 7)
Bus: Lines 21, 27, 39, 48
Nearby Attractions: Louvre Museum, Palais Royal Gardens, Paris Bourse, historic passages of the Grands Boulevards

Historical Overview

The INHA Library’s origins date back to the early 20th century with the Bibliothèque d’art et d’archéologie, founded by Jacques Doucet in 1908. Doucet’s vision of a world-class art reference library laid the groundwork for what would become France’s preeminent art historical resource. After various institutional developments, including integration with the Central Library of the National Museums, the INHA Library was officially established in 2003. Today, it holds over 1.7 million documents and serves a global audience of researchers, students, and art lovers.

Architectural Highlights

Salle Labrouste: The Heart of the INHA Library

Designed by Henri Labrouste and completed in 1867, the Salle Labrouste is an architectural marvel renowned for its cast-iron structure, nine luminous domes, and harmonious blend of light and space. The room’s elegant columns, decorative motifs, and abundant natural light create an inspiring environment for study and reflection. Recent renovations led by Bruno Gaudin and Virginie Brégal have restored its original grandeur while integrating state-of-the-art amenities.

Other Features:

The Oval Room (Salle Ovale) and grand staircase by Jean-Louis Pascal add to the site’s architectural richness, reflecting late 19th-century classicism.
The Richelieu site as a whole showcases the evolution of library design in France, from Enlightenment ideals to contemporary adaptive reuse.

Collections and Resources

Core Holdings

Open-Access Materials: Approximately 180,000 books and journals, especially in art history, archaeology, artist monographs, and exhibition catalogues, are available in the Labrouste Room and central stacks.
General Holdings: The library holds between 1.7 and 1.8 million documents, including books, periodicals, and archival materials.

Special Collections

Manuscripts and Rare Books: Including incunabula, artists’ archives, and early printed works
Photographic Archives: 750,000 photographs, many documenting exhibitions and the Parisian art world
Drawings and Prints: 30,000+ works, with highlights from the Bibliothèque centrale des musées nationaux and École des Beaux-Arts
Jacques Doucet Collection: Foundational assemblage of rare books, manuscripts, and archival treasures

Digital Resources

Expanding digital collection: e-books, online journals, digitized manuscripts, and searchable databases
Many resources accessible remotely to registered users; see the INHA Library Access page

Tours, Events, and Photographic Opportunities

Guided Tours: Regularly offered for the Salle Labrouste and other spaces; advance booking recommended
Special Events: Lectures, temporary exhibitions in the Colbert Gallery, and the annual Art History Festival
Photography: Permitted in public areas; the Salle Labrouste is especially photogenic, with its intricate ironwork and domed ceiling (be mindful of researchers and library staff)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is the INHA Library free to visit?
A: Yes, general admission is free; registration is required for access to reading rooms and special collections.

Q: Can tourists visit the Salle Labrouste?
A: Yes, the room is open to visitors during public hours and via guided tours.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, guided tours can be booked in advance; check the events calendar.

Q: Is the library accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, the building is fully accessible.

Q: What documents do I need for registration?
A: Students, researchers, and professionals should bring proof of status (student card, institutional ID, etc.).

Q: Can I access collections online?
A: Many digital resources and virtual tours are available via the INHA website.

Tips for Your Visit

Best Time: Weekday mornings or late afternoons are quietest
Combine Your Visit: Explore the nearby Louvre, Palais Royal, and Parisian cafés
Photography: Bring your camera, but respect the working environment
Digital Tools: Enhance your visit with the Audiala app for audio guides and interactive maps

Summary and Final Thoughts

The INHA Library at the Richelieu site offers a unique blend of architectural splendor, scholarly resources, and cultural accessibility. Its world-class collections, welcoming policies, and inspiring setting make it a must-visit for anyone passionate about art, architecture, or Parisian heritage. Whether you’re conducting research, joining a guided tour, or simply admiring the magnificent Salle Labrouste, the INHA Library is a living monument to the enduring value of art history in France and beyond.

Stay updated on hours, events, and registration requirements through the INHA Official Site, and consider using digital tools like the Audiala app to enrich your experience.